Chesapeake Bay Retriever Guide

Maryland's state dog is the most independent and toughest retriever. In fact, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers' ancestors were shipwrecked on the Chesapeake Bay coast. These dogs are strong, intense, and built for endurance.

As their name suggests, these dogs excel at water retrieving. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers (or “Chessies,” as their fans call them) are tough, powerful, and muscular. They are reliable working dogs who have even been trained to sniff out explosives!

An American original, this large and high-energy breed can grow to between 55-80 pounds and lives an average of 10-13 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.

These are smart, affectionate, sensitive, and hard-working dogs. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are playful and family-oriented, but play best with older kids. They can be shy with other dogs and strangers, but with socialization, many are friendly with other pets.

WHAT IS CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER BEHAVIOR LIKE?

This active breed requires regular, vigorous exercise, but they'd prefer to play retrieving games or swim than go for walks. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers need space to spread out and run. Once they've worked and played enough, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are mellow housedogs.

HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER?

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are trainable, but you'll need to be patient and consistent with these pups. Reward them with retrieving games or treats. Structured obedience training with professionals is recommended. Want to keep your Chessie busy? Chessies have distinguished themselves in tracking and obedience events.

CARE & HEALTH

HOW MUCH DO CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?

This breed's short, waterproof double coat is soft and dense underneath, overlaid by a flat and oily top coat.

Like many larger breeds, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers can be prone to joint issues and bloat. They also tend toward pudginess, so be mindful of meals.

Feeding your puppy Chessie a growth food for large-breed puppies will slow their rate of growth but not diminish their adult stature, and may help prevent or reduce the impact of adult-onset hip dysplasia.

Breed history has moved while this section is under construction. Please check out the first tab for fun facts about this breed's history. You can also read on to learn about this breed's ideal family situation.

IDEAL FAMILY

ARE CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVERS GOOD FOR PEOPLE WITH ALLERGIES?

The American Kennel Club doesn't list Chesapeake Bay Retrievers among its breeds recommended for allergy sufferers.

You can reduce your furry friend's impact on your allergies with frequent baths and brushings to reduce loose hairs and aggravating proteins in your pet's dander. Use a damp cloth to wipe off your dog after you've been playing outside. Smaller dogs have less surface area, and so produce comparatively less dander than larger breeds — definitely something to keep in mind with a dog as large as a Chesapeake Bay Retriever! Remember that no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, and any breed can aggravate allergies.

WHAT'S A CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER'S BEST DAY?

Let's go swimming! Ok, now toss the ball in the water. Yay!

Ok, again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again.

SHOULD I ADOPT A CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER?

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers will flourish with experienced dog owners and outdoorsy, active families but this very busy breed is not a great candidate for apartment living. Chipper Chessies do well in cold weather and fine in the heat. Their weatherproof coats are fairly easy to maintain, and with enough exercise, these dogs make calm and very loving housemates. If you can match their energy and commit to training these intelligent and sensitive pups, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever might be the right dog for you.